New H-1B Rule 2025: Trump Administration Introduces $100,000 Fee on Visa Petitions

The Trump administration has issued a major update to the H-1B visa program, requiring a $100,000 fee for all new petitions filed on or after September 21, 2025. The presidential proclamation, titled “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” is aimed at reducing alleged program abuse and protecting U.S. workers.

What the New H-1B Rule Means

• Fee requirement: Employers must pay a one-time $100,000 fee when filing a new H-1B petition.
• Effective date: Applies to petitions submitted after 12:01 a.m. EDT, September 21, 2025.
• Exemptions: The Secretary of Homeland Security may waive the fee for cases in the U.S. national interest.
• Not affected: H-1B renewals, transfers, and petitions filed before the effective date.

Why This Matters

The H-1B visa allows U.S. companies to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and academia. By dramatically increasing petition costs, the new rule could reshape how businesses — especially small companies and startups — recruit international talent.

Immigration experts warn that the $100,000 H-1B fee could discourage employers from sponsoring skilled workers, while larger corporations may still have the resources to continue hiring under the new system. Universities and research centers, which depend on H-1B workers, also face new financial pressures.

Reactions to the Policy

• Supporters: Some lawmakers and labor unions say the policy will protect U.S. jobs and prevent wage suppression.
• Critics: Immigration advocates and business leaders argue that the high cost unfairly limits access to foreign talent and may trigger legal challenges against the executive order.

What Employers and Applicants Should Do

• Check petition dates: If filed before September 21, 2025, the fee does not apply.
• Budget planning: Companies hiring foreign workers must factor in the new cost.
• Stay informed: The Departments of Labor, Homeland Security, and State will issue additional guidance on enforcement and possible exemptions.

The Bigger Picture

The H-1B visa program has long been a flashpoint in U.S. immigration and labor policy. With the introduction of this historic fee, debates over foreign worker recruitment, wage competition, and the role of immigration in the U.S. economy are expected to intensify.

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Source: raylizaghana.com